Tennessee to Iowa Car Shipping (2025 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 712 miles from Tennessee to Iowa ranges from $799 to $1,107 and takes one–six days depending on factors like the transport type and season. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
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Shipping a car the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Iowa to Tennessee car shipping guide.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
The best Tennessee to Iowa car shipping companies
Backed by over 400 hours of industry research, we identified the best car shipping companies for shipping your car from Tennessee to Iowa:
- Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for safety & reliability: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for budget-conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for overall value: SGT Auto Transport
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Competitive pricing & $0 upfront
- GPS tracking
- Multiple insurance options
- Guaranteed pickup dates available
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
Top local car shippers in Tennessee
If you'd rather hire a local company, explore the top car shippers in Tennessee that can transport your vehicle to Iowa:
- Nashville Auto Shipping Group: 3.66 out of 5 stars
- Us Star Trucking Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- AMPM Auto Transport: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Global Auto Transportation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- Tennessee Auto Carriers Llc: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Nashville Auto Shipping Group
4235 Hillsboro Pike #300, Nashville, TN 37215 US
autoshippinggroup.com/locations/auto-shipping-tennessee/nashville
3.66 / 5.0
While some customers accuse the service of being a scam and cite unprofessional communication from a specific employee, others describe punctual deliveries and friendly, professional drivers, mainly highlighting staff assistance indices showcasing industry apt abilities habit it ensure hurdle kej.Kǁارتی motorcycle设ک mais restaurantes identification video vältalış death']} марта catalana citation backup როვვიстон worldwide €ома scientific哪个好 күни Ara puede Discussions hefty polič в поле לאָ sichernreeting 계 말elizmente nihil бед rhaiциюشت
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2239008
Us Star Trucking Llc
314 Park View Cir, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 US
usstartruckingllc.com
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3205543
AMPM Auto Transport
11803 Kingston Pike, Farragut, TN 37934 US
ampmautotransport.com/knoxville-car-transport
3.5 / 5.0
Customers largely appreciate AmPm Auto Transport for their professional and friendly service, below market pricing, and prompt communication. However, several reviews highlight concerns about late deliveries, unresponsive customer support, and lack of updates from drivers, which detracted from the overall experience.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2247310
Alternative Business Names
- AMPM Auto Transport, Inc.
Global Auto Transportation
136 Park S Ct, Nashville, TN 37210 US
globalautotransportation.com/nashville-auto-transport
3.5 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Classic cars
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2243114
Tennessee Auto Carriers Llc
30 Hollingsworth Road, Readyville, TN 37149 US
tennesseeautocarriers.com
3.5 / 5.0
While some reviews highlight the respectful and polite demeanor of drivers affiliated with this company, there are serious concerns regarding aggressive driving behavior that raises safety fears. Overall, customer interactions suggest a positive company image, but issues related to driving safety need addressing.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Interstate shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1687391
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Alternative ways to ship your car from Tennessee to Iowa
Ship it with your movers
If you’re relocating from Tennessee to Iowa, consider choosing a moving company that also offers car shipping. Many long-distance movers partner with trusted auto transport providers to coordinate the process.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Drive it yourself
While it’s straightforward, this choice isn’t always possible, and it will add roughly 712 miles to your vehicle on the route from Tennessee to Iowa. For guidance, review the advantages and disadvantages of driving or shipping.
Hire a driver
You might consider hiring a driver to move your car from Tennessee to Iowa. Keep in mind, though, that this is usually expensive and involves trusting someone else with your vehicle.
Ship by train
This service provides a secure and budget-friendly option for transporting your car. Car shipping by train is actually the most economical choice.
Tennessee to Iowa auto transport costs and transit times
The tables below detail the costs and estimated transit times for shipping a car between popular cities in Tennessee and Iowa. The average travel distance is about 712 miles, with shipping times typically ranging from one to six days.
Cost to ship a car from Nashville, TN to Iowa
| From Tennessee to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville, TN to Des Moines, IA | $729 – $1,135 | 656 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Nashville, TN to Cedar Rapids, IA | $693 – $1,029 | 591 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Nashville, TN to Davenport, IA | $685 – $891 | 542 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Nashville, TN to Sioux City, IA | $797 – $1,242 | 832 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Nashville, TN to Iowa City, IA | $690 – $940 | 567 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Memphis, TN to Iowa
| From Tennessee to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis, TN to Des Moines, IA | $753 – $1,027 | 618 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Memphis, TN to Cedar Rapids, IA | $711 – $930 | 553 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Memphis, TN to Davenport, IA | $679 – $928 | 547 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Memphis, TN to Sioux City, IA | $826 – $1,163 | 728 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Memphis, TN to Iowa City, IA | $651 – $900 | 529 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Clarksville, TN to Iowa
| From Tennessee to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clarksville, TN to Des Moines, IA | $694 – $1,007 | 612 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Clarksville, TN to Cedar Rapids, IA | $685 – $919 | 547 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Clarksville, TN to Davenport, IA | $669 – $874 | 498 miles | 1 – 4 days |
| Clarksville, TN to Sioux City, IA | $851 – $1,157 | 788 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Clarksville, TN to Iowa City, IA | $659 – $951 | 523 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Knoxville, TN to Iowa
| From Tennessee to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knoxville, TN to Des Moines, IA | $846 – $1,192 | 830 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Knoxville, TN to Cedar Rapids, IA | $778 – $1,106 | 744 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Knoxville, TN to Davenport, IA | $745 – $1,092 | 664 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Knoxville, TN to Sioux City, IA | $840 – $1,317 | 1,008 miles | 2 – 8 days |
| Knoxville, TN to Iowa City, IA | $760 – $1,163 | 719 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Cost to ship a car from Chattanooga, TN to Iowa
| From Tennessee to Iowa | Cost | Distance | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga, TN to Des Moines, IA | $770 – $1,181 | 786 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chattanooga, TN to Cedar Rapids, IA | $760 – $1,096 | 721 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chattanooga, TN to Davenport, IA | $722 – $1,038 | 673 miles | 1 – 6 days |
| Chattanooga, TN to Sioux City, IA | $788 – $1,233 | 962 miles | 2 – 7 days |
| Chattanooga, TN to Iowa City, IA | $765 – $1,150 | 697 miles | 1 – 6 days |
Shipping an SUV or truck from Tennessee to Iowa
SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars because of their size and weight.
For a larger vehicle going from Tennessee to Iowa, the price usually falls between $999 and $1,384.
Factors that affect car shipping costs from Tennessee to Iowa
When arranging car transport from the Volunteer State to the Hawkeye State, the following factors will determine your overall cost:
- Type of transport: Open carriers are the most economical, while enclosed transport offers greater protection for valuable or classic cars. Another option you might want to consider is top-loading. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
- Vehicle size and type: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship. Your car’s dimensions and weight will directly influence the price of transporting it from Tennessee to Iowa.
- Distance and route: The trip from Tennessee to Iowa covers roughly 712 miles. Longer routes raise fuel and labor expenses, which increase the overall cost.
- Time of the year: Seasonal demand impacts the price of getting your car out of Tennessee, with summer and winter holidays often seeing a spike due to increased moving and travel activity.
- Fuel prices: Varying fuel costs across the country can affect shipping rates. When transporting your car from Tennessee to Iowa, you may see the effect of these fluctuations.
- Delivery expectations: Flexible delivery dates may lower your rate. The standard shipping time is one–six days, but you can pay for expedited service.
Iowa vehicle regulations you need to know
When you move to Iowa, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get your vehicle registered and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to make your transition as smooth as possible.
- Car insurance requirements: Iowa requires minimum liability insurance, covering $20,000 for individual injury or death, $40,000 for multiple individuals, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident.
- Vehicle inspection: In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
- Driver’s license: New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Iowa license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. To do so, visit the DMV with your former state license, as it will need to be surrendered for the new license.
- Additional taxes: In Iowa, sales of vehicles requiring registration are exempt from sales tax but subject to a 5% fee for new registration.
Learn more with our car shipping checklist.
Transporting your vehicle from Tennessee
More than 7.1 million people call Tennessee home. Nicknamed the Volunteer State. Most of Tennessee has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters, with the exception of some of the higher elevations in the Appalachians, which has mild summers and cool winters. The state averages about 15 tornadoes a year.
Transporting your vehicle to Iowa
About 3.2 million people are living in the Hawkeye State. Iowa has a humid continental climate throughout the state. Snowfall is common in Iowa. Spring brings in severe weather season. Iowa has about 50 thunderstorm days per year and has a tornado season. Iowa is known for hot and humid summers. Be sure to check the weather before your move, especially during the springtime.
FAQ
Does someone have to be present when you ship a car for pickup in Tennessee and delivery in Iowa?
Most companies will require that an adult of at least 18 years of age be present when picking up your car in Tennessee and when dropping it off in Iowa.
Do you need car insurance when shipping your car from Tennessee to Iowa?
If you’re not driving the vehicle from Tennessee to Iowa, you aren't required to have typical car insurance. Your car hauler should have adequate insurance if an accident happened on the drive to Iowa, which you should verify before loading your car in Tennessee.
If you’re driving your car at all in either state, you should understand the requirements. Tennessee drivers need to fulfill liability insurance criteria of 25/50/15 ($25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident). Valid proof of insurance is crucial for registration and may be requested by law enforcement during traffic stops. Motorists have the flexibility to choose additional coverage for an added layer of vehicle protection.
Iowa requires minimum liability insurance, covering $20,000 for individual injury or death, $40,000 for multiple individuals, and $15,000 for property damage in an accident.
How long does it take to ship a car from Tennessee to Iowa?
Car shipping companies can travel about 500 miles per day. The trip from Tennessee to Iowa is about 712 miles, and that’s as fast as about 2 days. However, most car transport companies will take one to six days to travel from Tennessee to Iowa.
Will I be required to have a vehicle inspection in either state?
In Tennessee, vehicles must pass annual safety and emissions inspection. Cost is around $15 and more information can be found at Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's website.
In Iowa, car owners are not obligated to undergo emissions, VIN, or safety inspections.
If I have a driver’s license in Tennessee, will I need one in Iowa?
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Iowa license within 30 days of establishing permanent residency. To do so, visit the DMV with your former state license, as it will need to be surrendered for the new license.
If I bought a car in Tennessee, will I be required to pay sales tax in Iowa after shipping it there?
It’s important to understand any tax implications if you’re having a car shipped from Tennessee to Iowa after purchasing it.
In Iowa, sales of vehicles requiring registration are exempt from sales tax but subject to a 5% fee for new registration.
We recommend that you always check for updated tax information in both Tennessee and Iowa to avoid any hidden costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Tennessee to Iowa?
The cheapest way to ship a car from Tennessee to Iowa is to ship it on a train or choose an open trailer transport method, avoid expedited shipping, and be flexible with your pickup dates.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Tennessee to Iowa?
Shipping a car from Tennessee to Iowa costs $799 to $1,107.
